Top Tips for Success with Sheepskin Pipe Bags

So, you've taken the plunge (or you're thinking about it): a sheepskin pipe bag.

The tone is legendary, the feel is traditional... and the maintenance? Let’s just say, it’s a long-term relationship, not a one-night stand.

But don’t let that scare you off. With a little know-how and a few good habits, your sheepskin bag can last longer, play better, and sound amazing.

Here are our top tips for making it work.

1. Start With a Solid Tie-In

This is non-negotiable. A sheepskin bag is only as good as its tie-in, and a poor one will lead to leaks, instability, and a lot of frustration. If you’ve never done a hide tie-in before, ask for help or have someone experienced do it with you.

Once tied in, give each stock a firm twist and tug – you want to know it won’t move under pressure. Repeat this check after seasoning sessions or any long break from playing.

2. Nail the First Seasoning

Your first seasoning sets the tone (literally) for the bag’s lifespan. Use a large amount of seasoning, heated until it’s nearly boiling. Pour it in and massage the entire bag – especially the seam where most leaks develop.

Blow the bag up tight and gently kneel on it to work the seasoning into the pores of the leather. Don’t worry if you see some seepage along the seam – that’s actually a good sign. But if you see it leaking from the stocks, you likely need to retie.

Let the bag drain upside down for at least 24 hours in a cool, dry place.

3. Don’t Overdo the Seasoning

Once the bag is broken in, seasoning should be occasional – not routine. Too much seasoning shortens the lifespan and can clog your reeds. Most pipers get away with seasoning only every few months, or just before big performances. Learn your bag’s behavior and don’t season “just because.”

4. Play It or Lose It

Sheepskin needs regular use to stay supple. Skip a couple of weeks and you may find the bag drying out or stiffening. You don’t need marathon sessions – just 10–15 minutes of daily playing can make a difference.

If you’re going to be off the pipes for a while, consider storing your bagpipes in a giant Ziploc bag to help maintain humidity inside the bag. You want to aim for 40-70% humidity – you can also grab a cheap hygrometers online and put one inside the bag so you can keep an eye on things and make sure your bag isn't drying out too much while you're not playing.

5. Store Smart

Avoid heat, sunlight, and super-dry rooms. Sheepskin thrives at 40–70% humidity, so a cool closet is usually better than the boot of your car or near a heater. If you live somewhere particularly dry, a small humidifier in your practice space can help keep the leather from drying out too quickly.

6. Watch for Warning Signs

Soft spots in the leather, changes in tone stability, or trouble maintaining air pressure may all point to a leak or wear. Don’t ignore these. The earlier you spot and address them, the better chance you have of fixing the issue before it wrecks your performance... or your bag.

Sheepskin bags require more effort than synthetic or hybrid alternatives. But if you’re chasing that rich, vibrant tone, the reward is worth it. With the right setup and regular care, your sheepskin bag won’t just sound great – it’ll make you a more disciplined, attentive piper.

Take care of it, and it will take care of your sound.

Check out this episode of Dojo Conversations as we dive into the nitty gritty of successfully setting up and maintaining a sheepskin bag.